Hello there!
Finding the right therapist can be stressful and time-consuming.
Once you find a therapist that seems like a good fit — who accepts your form of payment, has experience with the sort of issue(s) you are processing, and is welcoming new clients — it’s deflating when the pairing doesn’t feel right.
Maybe the therapist isn’t listening to your needs, can’t relate to your specific situation without bringing in personal bias, offers unhelpful critique, or doesn’t push you enough in the ways you wish. Or, simply, there’s a personality conflict.
I take the time to do a thorough intake so we both feel as confident as possible starting our work together.
I believe in addressing the systems of oppression that shape our world and our worldview.
I also understand that some emotions and experiences exist in conjunction with or despite those systems, not as the result of them.
I welcome, honor, and value diversity
People and relationships present themselves in a full spectrum, as do religions, gender, sexuality, and ethnic and racial connection. I do not come to therapy as a person who knows everything. I am invested in learning; I work towards creating a space that is open, inviting, and safe to dive more deeply into your past to see how your experiences, along with the unavoidable systems within our cultures, have shaped your present reality. The broad scope of our identities impactsour lives and therefore our therapy. I’m committed to holding space for you as you are, in the many ways that you are.
I’m SuMing Sullivan
I’m a licensed clinical social worker in Arlington, MA and I work with adults of all ages as well as with relationships and couples.
I am also a CrossFit trainer and have advanced training in perinatal fitness. Through these complementary disciplines, I also provide integrative mind-body and body-based interventions (such as walking psychotherapy) to interested clients.
I have two children, a husband, a dog and two cats. I am heterosexual and a cisgender woman.
the boring stuff
I have completed Postpartum Support International’s Perinatal Mood and Anxiety Disorder Training and Advanced Perinatal Mental Health Psychotherapy Training.
I have completed the Emotionally Focused Therapy Externship, Core Skills, and several other advanced practice courses. I am also in regular supervision and consultation with Clinical Supervisors in Emotionally Focused Therapy.
I earned my Masters of Social Work (MSW) from Boston College in Chestnut Hill, Massachusetts and my Bachelors of Science from Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore, Maryland.
I have worked for a number of organizations including Harvard Vanguard Medical Associates, Massachusetts General Hospital, DOVE, Jhpiego, the International Health Affiliate of Johns Hopkins University, and World Relief – Cambodia.
“The most precious gift we can offer others is our presence. When mindfulness embraces those we love, they will bloom like flowers.”